Imagine a world where one of the most famous YouTubers, MrBeast, wins the U.S. presidential election. On July 6, MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, suggested through a social media post that he would run for president if the age requirement was lowered. The U.S. Constitution currently requires presidential candidates to be at least 35 years old, but MrBeast, now 26, confidently stated, "If we lower the age to run for president I’ll jump in the race."
This revelation quickly gained massive attention, sparking debates, excitement, and skepticism. Known for his viral stunts and charitable activities, MrBeast's foray into politics has elicited a flurry of reactions across social media platforms. His initial tweet has garnered millions of views and likes, with supporters and detractors alike weighing in on his potential run.
MrBeast has built his brand on philanthropy and high-budget videos. Forbes ranked him as one of YouTube's highest earners, raking in $54 million in 2022, primarily through advertisements. From recreating Netflix's "Squid Game" to giving away homes to families in need, his content frequently centers on grand gestures of goodwill. Despite his charitable endeavors, not everyone is sold on the idea of a YouTuber transitioning to the Oval Office.
When asked if he would continue making videos if he became president, MrBeast responded, "I'd probably focus on running the largest economy on earth." He plans to prioritize the American people's interests above party lines, and on matters he's unfamiliar with, he would seek advice from experts on both sides of the political spectrum. Yet, this centrist approach has not been universally well-received.
Critics argue that seeking a middle ground on myriad complex and polarizing issues oversimplifies the role of the presidency. Questions about balancing competing viewpoints—such as universal healthcare—remain contentious. The internet responded with both humor and disdain, some likening his platform to the naive musings of a child. Nonetheless, MrBeast insisted his main goal would be uniting the country rather than creating further division.
Interestingly, this isn't the first time MrBeast has toyed with the idea of running for president. In a 2022 podcast interview, he speculated about making a bid for presidency in his forties. He envisioned amassing a fortune only to give it all away before his campaign, showcasing his unbuyable nature and dedication to the American people. The possibility of youth influencing the political arena is certainly appealing to those tired of the current aging leadership.
Given the political landscape with Biden and Trump as the prominent contenders, MrBeast's proposition has an allure, especially among younger voters. However, the constitutional age requirement remains a significant barrier. As MrBeast's activities continue to attract both praise and criticism, the public remains divided over whether a social media influencer can successfully transition into the world of politics.
Supporters assert MrBeast would be a refreshing change from traditional politicians. "You would be better than Biden & Trump for all we know," wrote one user. Detractors, however, question the plausibility and seriousness of his candidacy. "Why would you make a good president? You're just a YouTuber," commented another.
MrBeast's blend of idealism and pragmatism attracts a considerable following. His high-profile ventures, like building homes for the underprivileged and his commitment to charitable causes, make him a compelling, though contentious, figure in the political discourse. "When we help people (curing 1,000 blind people, building 100 houses, 100 wells, etc.) people get mad and say I shouldn't be doing this and governments should," he posted. "Yes, ideally a YouTuber isn't the one fixing these issues, but I'm not just gonna stand by and do nothing."
What does all this mean for the future of American politics? If the age requirement does indeed change, and MrBeast does run, the impact on both the digital and political landscape could be seismic. It would signal a shift towards more unconventional candidates and challenge the status quo. It also raises questions about the influence of social media on political processes and the potential for non-traditional figures to lead at the highest levels of government.
In the meantime, MrBeast continues to entertain and inspire millions with his larger-than-life charitable acts and humility-driven message. His hypothetical bid for presidency acts as a mirror reflecting both the potential and pitfalls of a new age in politics. Only time will tell if such an idea could become a reality, but the discussions spurred by MrBeast's declaration have already left a mark on public consciousness.
As we navigate an era defined by digital influence, MrBeast's potential pivot from YouTube stardom to presidential aspirant underscores a crucial point: who leads us might look very different in the future. MrBeast’s provocative statement serves as a thought experiment on how young, influential figures could one day reshape political norms. In his own words, "Anyways, we can pick this up in 15 years when I'm old enough to run haha."